Latch Mounting

Best Gate Latch Mounting

How To: Install the Best Gate Latch

The Best Gate Latch will accommodate a gate to post spacing (the distance between the gate and the post) of a minimum of two and a half inches (2.5”) to a maximum of five and a half inches (5.5”). This range allows the Best Latch to accommodate gates with a big spacing very easily.

A good way to know where to install the Best Latch on the post is to set it in between the post and the gate in line with the second gate rail.

Step 1: Set the Best Gate Latch on the post at the desired place on the post and using a pencil mark the top edge of the latch.

Step 2: Using a square, draw a line across the width of the post at the pencil mark.

Step 3: Next use a drill with a 7/32 drill bit, hold up the Best Latch in the center of the post in alignment with the post, and drill four pilot holes.

Step 4: Each Best Latch comes with 4 lag bolts that require the use of a half inch drive socket or wrench. Using the 1/2 inch drive socket wrench or in a drill, install the lag bolts that are supplied with the Best Latch to mount it to the post.

Once the bolts are snug, the Best Latch is ready for use!

How To: Notching the post for gate spacing of less than 2.5”

The minimum gate to post spacing is two and a half inches (2.5”). If the space between your gate and post is less than 2.5”, measure that spacing and make a notch in the post for the gate latch that is equal to the amount of space needed to fit the gate latch in.

Examples:

When using a tape measure, you discover that the space between the gate and the post is only two inches; you’ll then notch a half inch amount out of the post for the gate latch to sit within.

Likewise, if the total space between the gate and the post measures at one and a half inches (1.5”), then you will need to make a one inch (1”) notch in the post.

If you are mounting to a round post, it is a good idea to always make a flat spot for the latch to be securely mounted.

When mounting to a round metal post, you will need U-Bolts that will fit the width to fit into the Best Latch pre-drilled holes.

If a U-Bolt will not accommodate the diameter of the round metal post, we also sell a model of the Best Latch that can be welded to the post. Please send an email or give us a call with any questions.

Step 1: Set the Best Gate Latch on the post at the desired place on the post and using a pencil mark the top edge of the latch.

Step 2: The Best Gate Latch is six inches (6”), using a tape measure, measure just over 6” (about 6 and 1/4 inches) and make a second pencil mark on the post.

Step 3: Using a square, draw a line across the width of the post at each pencil mark. This will mark the top and the bottom of the Best Latch.

Step 4: Next set your circular saw at the depth using a tape measure needed to create the needed notch. In this example, it is half inch.

Step 5: The first two cuts with the saw are critical. You’ll want to make sure you follow the lines that you drew on the post.

Step 6: Now make a series of cuts in the post in between the top line and the bottom line. These don’t necessarily have to be straight.

Step 7: After making the series of cuts, use a chisel and a hammer to remove the wood between the top and bottom lines. Remember to clean out any high spots to create a level surface for the Best Gate Latch to set flat and level.

Step 8: Using a drill with a 7/32 drill bit, hold up the Best Gate Latch in alignment with the post, and drill four pilot holes.

Step 9: Next use a 1/2 inch drive socket in the drill to install the lag bolts that are supplied with the Best Latch to mount it to the post.

Once the bolts are snug, the Best Latch is ready for use!

ABOUT US

In 23 years of being a farrier and having gone through 1000's of gates, Gene never encountered a gate latch that had all the features desirable for a gate to have. After looking at the latches that were available for purchase, Gene did not find a latch on the market that met all the criteria and that is when he came up with the Best Latch.